As diplomatic tensions between India and Pakistan rise following the Pahalgam terror attack, the Indian government has begun identifying and preparing to deport over 600 Pakistani nationals residing in South India. From Kerala to Karnataka, authorities are intensifying checks and directing most Pakistani citizens to return home immediately.
1. Over 600 Pakistanis Identified in South India
Government sources estimate that more than 600 Pakistani nationals are currently staying in South India. This action follows India’s suspension of visa services and the downgrading of diplomatic ties with Islamabad after the Pahalgam incident.
2. Kerala Hosts Over 100 Pakistanis
According to Manorama, there are 102 Pakistani nationals in Kerala. Nearly half of them are on medical visas, while the rest are present for business purposes. All non-emergency visitors have been directed to exit the country by April 29.
3. 208 Pakistanis in Hyderabad Alone
In Hyderabad, 208 Pakistani nationals have been tracked. Among them, 156 hold Long-Term Visas (LTVs), 13 are on Short-Term Visas, and 39 are present on medical grounds. Long-Term Visas are typically granted to individuals married to Indian citizens or related by blood.
4. Tamil Nadu Begins Deportation Process
The Tamil Nadu government has identified around 180–200 Pakistani nationals. Except those receiving emergency medical care, others have been instructed to leave immediately. Many had traveled to Chennai and Vellore for advanced healthcare services.
5. Karnataka Cracks Down on Illegal Residents
Karnataka’s Home Minister G Parameshwara confirmed that illegal Pakistani residents are being verified and deported. In a recent operation, 137 illegal immigrants were detained, including 25 Pakistan nationals. The highest number of arrests was in Bengaluru, with 84 individuals taken into custody.
- Bengaluru – 84 arrests
- Bengaluru Rural – 27
- Shivamogga – 12
- Udupi – 10
- Hassan – 3
- Mangaluru – 1
6. India Suspends All Visa Services for Pakistani Citizens
India has stopped issuing all types of visas—including student, business, and medical—to Pakistani nationals. All medical visa holders have been given until April 29 to leave, with most expected to depart by April 27. Exceptions apply only to LTV holders from the Hindu community.
Additionally, all existing visas granted to Pakistani nationals will stand revoked from April 27, with the exception of long-term visas issued to members of the Hindu community from Pakistan. Medical visa holders have been provided a two-day grace period to make travel arrangements.
Amid heightened tensions following recent terror attacks in Pahalgam, the Government of India has suspended all visa services for Pakistani citizens. This includes student, business, and medical visas. Indian nationals have also been advised to avoid travel to Pakistan until further notice.
7. SAARC Visa Scheme Cancelled for Pakistan
India has also revoked the SAARC visa exemption scheme for Pakistani nationals. Those who entered through this program must exit within 48 hours. Intelligence agencies have also increased scrutiny on Pakistanis entering via third countries like the UAE, especially those on temporary business assignments.
Why Most Pakistanis Come to South India
Many Pakistanis travel to India for medical treatment, particularly in cities like Chennai and Vellore known for advanced healthcare facilities. Others arrive for trade and business, especially from regions such as Punjab and Delhi. However, with India now suspending all new visa grants and revoking existing permissions, most Pakistani citizens are being forced to return home.
Conclusion
This sweeping move to identify and expel Pakistani nationals reflects the Indian government’s firm stance following rising cross-border tensions. As diplomatic channels remain frozen, both sides appear to be engaging in reciprocal measures that could further reshape South Asia’s geopolitical dynamics in 2025.
Category: South Asia News, Immigration & Policy, National Security, Current Affairs
Tags: Pakistani nationals India, Kerala Pakistanis, Hyderabad Pakistanis, Tamil Nadu visa crackdown, Karnataka illegal immigrants, India Pakistan tensions, medical visas revoked, SAARC visa cancellation, deportation order, Pahalgam attack, Indian visa ban 2025
